An Interview With The Emerging Singer-Songwriter, RAYLA!

Photo Credit- Robbie Joseph

RAYLA is an impressive, emerging singer-songwriter who is making waves in the music industry. Handpicked to open for the likes of Daya, Olivia Holt and Jana Kramer, this 17-year-old’s fresh, unique sound delivers songs that are packed with relatable lyrics. Her debut single “Boys Like You” has received overwhelmingly positive response. She loves to be able to put her own original stamp on the music she creates, as evidenced both in her covers of popular songs, and in her original music.

Writing her first song at the age of five, Rayla credits Halsey, Camila Cabello, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran to be major influences to her career. Music has always been a dominate part of her life and she is eager to make her own imprint in the music scene.

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Learn more about Rayla in the following All Access interview:

Thanks for your time today! Where does this interview find you now? What’s on tap for the rest of your day?

Of course! Well right now I’m currently at the studio working on new music and getting ready for rehearsal for an upcoming show! After rehearsal I get to go home and snuggle with my dog, clean my room, and watch some Netflix.

All Access Music is currently compiling a list of our artists favorite songs this summer so what is YOUR song of the summer?

Lately the one song I never change when it comes on is “Army” by Ellie Goulding. I’m obsessed.

Overall, how do you think 2018 has been treating you and your music career?

Honestly, 2018 has been the craziest ride ever. Overall it has been such a surreal year with the release of my single “Boys Like You”, having it be premiered on Radio Disney. A lot more exciting things are happening that you guys will find out about soon! I’m super thankful for everything that has happened this year and for the amazing team I have around me.

What has been one goal that you have had this year and how close are you to reaching it?

One goal I set for myself this year was radio play!! When I first heard my song on the radio I was so shocked and excited that I literally just burst into tears – lol. It was so crazy and such an accomplishment and now I’m just working towards more exciting moments like that, as well as some personal goals I hope to reach in 2018.

Growing up, was music always a big part of your life?

Music was a huge part of my life. I can’t say anyone in my family has any musical talent besides my grandpa who I used to sing karaoke with, but my dad had the greatest ear for music, so I was lucky enough to fall in love with it at a young age. I also performed a lot and would find a stage anywhere- whether it was the dishwasher door in my kitchen or the coffee table in the family room.

Can you recall your first ever musical experience?

I grew up writing songs and going to a studio in my hometown to record. One thing I do remember was when I was 7, I went to a karaoke place (I definitely was the youngest person there) and sang a song in front of everyone. I was so happy and so proud of myself. After I finished singing, a man came up to me and said, “Excuse me young lady, can I have your autograph because I believe you are going to be a star”. I can still remember that so clearly. That was a moment I fell in love with what I was doing and knew I had to do this forever.

What has been the biggest surprise so far about making music your career?

Probably seeing how many people have been supportive from the beginning and have become involved with my career. So many amazing people believe in me and my music and the fact that they take their time and energy and invest it in me and my career is insane. I’m so thankful!! Making music has always been my dream, so anything that pops up I don’t take it as a surprise, I take it as more of an opportunity and a learning experience.

Has there been an unexpected or welcome challenge to it all?

Definitely. There are so many curve balls in this business. You get promised a lot of things and then will see that people don’t always follow through with what they say they want to do for you. It’s hard to learn that at such a young age. You just have to keep a tight team around you of who you trust. It also helps to have my mom around too 🙂

How do you think you and your music have been influenced by your hometown and where you live today?

Growing up, I was really lucky to have venues in town I could perform at and we even had a recording studio that was just for kids. I spent a lot of time writing songs and hanging with other musicians at this studio. Now with my songs on the radio it’s so crazy. My mom has literally been stopped in the grocery store and asked who some of my songs are about! I really was extremely lucky growing up where I did and everyone at home has been so supportive and have shown nothing but love. I’m in New York or LA a lot and that has opened up so many opportunities to work with amazing writers and producers.

What is the music scene like there these days? (what’s your thoughts on the music scene today?)

Music is forever evolving and it’s so cool to get to see the changes and actually understand what’s going on. One thing that I’ve noticed the most is that people have stopped caring as much about putting a label on your music, and I love that. Today, you have country artists collaborating with pop artists, and EDM artists collaborating with country artists. It’s really awesome to see everyone coming together and just learning to love and focus on the music again.

How would you say that you have grown as an artist since you first starting making music?

I have evolved so much. I’m going to let you guys in on a secret, I actually used to love singing country music. When I was younger it was my all-time favorite genre and then I guess just getting older I evolved more into a pop artist. I’ll always have a little country in me, but the transition was natural and something that came with maturing. I can definitely say I’m a completely different person and artist from when I first started.

What has remained the same?

My goals and drive have stayed the same. Sometimes it’s hard to stay level headed and it’s hard not to get frustrated at situations. Every once in a while, you have to check back in and remember why you are doing this and that’s when I remember that little girl singing on the dishwasher and remember why I’m doing all of this 🙂

Let’s talk about your debut single “Boys Like You.” What was the inspiration for this song?

Yes! This song actually is based on a true story!! I was in a toxic relationship, you can say. And no matter what this boy would do, even if I knew it was SO wrong I would find myself going back to him and I hated it. I think sometimes it’s good to recognize moments like that. You hear songs about overcoming certain things but that’s not always the case. It’s okay to not be okay. The song does have an empowering moment at the end and I love that.

Why do you think it’s a perfect song to introduce people to you and what you are all about musically?

Music takes time and I think that the time chose me. I’ve been working my whole life and patience is really important in this business, so I guess right now I am just sort of going with the flow! I think now is a good time because with my music I believe my messages are timely and I want people to be happy and comforted when they need it. Music can be so powerful, I’m just lucky to be a part of it.

When do you hope to release more new music a full EP or album of new songs?

I do have an EP coming this fall, and a new single on the way called “Late Night Thoughts”!  I’m super excited for this one and it’s coming sooner than you think. So be on the look out:)

Are you currently in the studio working on new music?

Yes! Always! Music is constantly flowing. If you have an idea or just slight inspiration you have to go for it. I’m always in the studio working and creating. It never stops:)

What do you think makes for an ideal show for you?

My favorite thing at a show is when the crowd has great energy and is really into it. Honestly, you never know what you’re going to get at a Rayla show but every time, I always have the most fun when I can just dance and have fun with the crowd.

What has been a favorite performance of yours so far?

I just had a show at The Gramercy Theater in NYC and it was INCREDIBLE. I haven’t performed in a while because I’ve been working super hard on my music and focusing on the kind of artist I want to be, but I was so eager to get on stage and I had the most fun ever. That crowd was amazing and I hope to be back there soon!!

Do you have any upcoming shows the rest of this summer and into the fall?

I do! I have a show coming up at iPlay America, August 24th and I’m so stoked for it. It’s actually my first ever headlining show and near my hometown so I’m putting together something super fun for it. I hope to see some of you there!!

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